Erdogan to Enhance Diplomatic Ties with Ethiopia and Somalia Following Peace Agreement
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey will visit Ethiopia and Somalia in early 2025 after successfully mediating a peace agreement between the two nations. The tensions, which arose from a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, were resolved following diplomatic talks facilitated by Turkey. Erdogan has also offered mediation in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, further demonstrating Turkey’s emerging role in international diplomacy within Africa and the Middle East.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced his impending visit to Ethiopia and Somalia during the first two months of 2025. This visit follows his pivotal role in mediating a resolution to a year-long dispute between these neighboring nations. Erdogan brokered a significant peace agreement on December 11 in Ankara, a development that has been interpreted as a historic diplomatic success. The tensions originated from Ethiopia’s controversial agreement with Somaliland regarding a coastal lease, which Somalia decried as a breach of its sovereignty. However, Erdogan’s diplomatic engagement fostered a resolution, culminating in discussions between Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This achievement has garnered commendation from organizations such as the African Union and the European Union, highlighting the positive impact of Erdogan’s mediation efforts.
Beyond the Horn of Africa, President Erdogan has extended his diplomatic reach to Sudan, proposing to mediate between Sudan’s military factions and the UAE-backed Rapid Support Forces. The Sudanese conflict has caused significant humanitarian crises, evidenced by the deaths of tens of thousands and the displacement of over 11 million individuals. Erdogan’s interventions underscore Turkey’s increasing influence in international diplomatic matters, particularly within Africa and the Middle East, where he seeks to play a vital role in resolving conflicts involving both regional and global stakeholders.
The background of this diplomatic engagement involves escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, primarily triggered by Ethiopia’s 2023 agreement with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia. The proposed lease of a coastal area raised alarms for Somalia, which viewed it as a threat to its sovereignty. The ensuing conflict prompted Turkey to intervene and mediate discussions between the two nations, reflecting not only the specific regional issues at play but also Turkey’s broader strategy to enhance its influence across Africa and the Middle East. Following extensive diplomatic efforts, a peace agreement was sought to end the protracted standoff, culminating in a significant breakthrough marked by the recent signing of an agreement orchestrated by Erdogan.
In conclusion, President Erdogan’s anticipated visit to Ethiopia and Somalia signifies a major diplomatic achievement following the successful mediation of a long-standing dispute. This initiative highlights Turkey’s expanding role in fostering peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, while Erdogan’s broader diplomatic endeavors, particularly concerning Sudan, illustrate Turkey’s commitment to resolving regional conflicts. As countries increasingly seek mediation from external powers, Turkey’s influence in African and Middle Eastern affairs is poised to grow significantly, establishing it as a key player in international diplomacy.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
